Fast and efficient cutting of concrete surfaces
In the world of construction, diamond cutting blades are an indispensable tool that brings precision and efficiency to every job site. This article unveils the secrets of how these blades work and how the correct choice of blade can significantly impact the quality and speed of your work.
How diamond cutting blades work
A diamond cutting blade consists of three main parts: the core, the segment, and the gullets. The core is the central metal disc to which the blade segments are attached. The stronger the attachment to this core, the stronger the blade. The segment is a piece of metal enriched with diamonds, welded to the blade's core, and is the main component for cutting or grinding materials. Gullets are slots in the blade's core that allow for faster cooling by supplying water or air between the segments.
The segments renew themselves during cutting, as worn diamonds are expelled, exposing new diamonds that cut through the concrete. The blade is used until the segments are completely worn. A crucial aspect of the diamond cutting blade's composition is the bond in the segment, which can be softer or harder.
Choosing the right tools for cutting concrete
The foundation of concrete cutting is the diamond blade. Unlike abrasive blades that wear out quickly, diamond blades offer durability and precision. These blades come in two types: for dry or wet cutting. Diamond cutting blades are suitable for both circular power saws and cutting carts.
Safety is paramount when cutting concrete. Protective gear, including a high-filtration mask, shin guards, knee pads, steel-toed boots, safety glasses, and ear protection, is essential to prevent injuries from dust and noise.
Manufacturers offer diamond blades at different quality levels. For smaller projects, an economical choice is more cost-effective, while for larger projects or more frequent use, higher quality diamond cutting blades prove to be more economical in the long run.
When selecting a diamond cutting blade, it's important to consider the type of tool you're using, as well as its power and operational speed. Manufacturers specify maximum speeds for their products. Always ensure the blade is compatible with your saw's speed range to prevent equipment damage and ensure safety at work.
Preparing the workspace
Start by preparing the area to contain dust and protect sensitive surfaces. Seal entrances and vents to protect the interior of your home, and make sure to wear all safety equipment before starting your project. Use chalk to mark cutting lines for visibility.
Cutting process
Start by choosing the type of blade. For smaller projects, a dry diamond blade on a large angle grinder may suffice. However, for deeper or longer cuts, consider renting a wet cutting cart. Set up your saw according to the manufacturer's instructions, adjusting the blade depth to a maximum of 2 cm for the initial cut to maintain control and prevent overheating.
If you're cutting concrete dry, it's necessary to pause during longer cuts to allow the blade to cool. For deeper cuts, gradually increase the blade depth by 2 cm, repeating the cutting and cooling process until the desired depth is reached. After completing the cut, use a heavy hammer and breaker to remove the concrete, then clean the edges with a chisel and hammer for a neat finish.
Finishing up
Once the cutting process is complete, it's important to thoroughly clean the area and remove all dust. For those planning to pour new concrete, leave a jagged edge to aid in adhesion. If you desire a neatly finished edge, it can be further smoothed with a diamond grinding blade, which will nicely polish and finish the concrete edge.
Concrete cutting is a feasible project for DIYers with proper preparation, the right tools, and safety measures. Using diamond blades not only ensures efficiency and precision but also safety.
Relevant cutting blades
All diamond cutting blades in our offer are made in Germany according to strict European safety standards.
Name | Purpose of use | Available diameters ( in mm) | Segment height (in mm) |
---|---|---|---|
DIAPROX turbo laser E10 | Basic cutting of concrete, stone | 300 - 500 | 10 |
DIAPROX turbo laser S10 | Best seller, cutting of concrete, stone | 300 - 1000 | 10 |
DIAPROX makro laser S | Professional use for cutting concrete, stone, granit | 300 - 600 | 12 |
DIAPROX premium beton multidrive | Professional use for cutting concrete, stone, asphalt with patented segments | 300 - 1000 | 13 - 17 |
DIAPROX S10 KL turbo | Universal, broad use | 230 | 11 |